As the benefits of mentoring become clear, many law firms and legal departments in the Toronto area are launching formal workplace mentoring programs. These programs can vary greatly in structure, duration, and quality, but they all have one thing in common: Without the participation of both mentors and mentees, even the best mentoring program is doomed to fail.
Here’s how to get the most from what your workplace mentoring program offers:
- Get “on the same page” with your mentor early in the program. A mentoring program gives you the opportunity to connect one-on-one with a more experienced professional who can help you shape your career. Your mentor can only help you, however, if he or she knows what kind of help you’re looking for and what information will help you most. Whether or not the program makes space for it, connect with your mentor early for a one-on-one chat to start building a relationship that works for you both.
- Find ways to help your mentor. In a mentorship program, many mentees enter seeking help from a more experienced colleague. But just like any relationship, a mentoring relationship works best when both parties give and receive. Find ways to help your mentor by sharing information, resources, and connections. You’ll both benefit when you’re both focused on improving your knowledge, skills, and careers.
- Remember that being a mentor has benefits, too. In some organizations, mentorship programs suffer not from a lack of employees who need mentoring, but from a lack of employees who feel they have the time or expertise to provide it. In fact, you don’t need to have mastered your field in order to mentor a less-experienced co-worker, nor do you need to do all the teaching and directing. Build a mentoring relationship in which you work with a less-experienced colleague. You’ll be amazed how much you learn as well.
Want to reap the benefits of a mentoring program, but find yourself currently between jobs? Consider seeking mentorship from a former supervisor, co-worker, or other professional whose work you admire. Supercharge your job search in the meantime by exploring the job search board at Kent Legal and connecting with one of our recruiters.
At Kent Legal, our experienced recruiters will help you find the temporary or permanent legal support position you’re looking for. Contact us today to learn more!